The long-discussed disappearance of BNP leader M. Ilias Ali has sparked fresh debate in the recent investigation. Sources involved in the investigation claim that some information has emerged from the interrogation of former army officer Sheikh Mamun Khaled , who is in the custody of law enforcement agencies, although this information has not yet been officially verified.
During interrogation by the Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Branch (DB) and other agencies, he denied his direct involvement in the disappearance of Ilyas Ali. However, he is said to have provided some information about the background behind the incident, possible people involved and the process, which is currently being verified.
Political context and allegations
Sources involved in the investigation say that Ilyas Ali was under political pressure due to his active role in the Tipaimukh Dam and regional transit issues. However, these statements have not yet been independently confirmed and no official response has been received from the parties concerned.
Some sources claim that Ilyas Ali and his driver were picked up from Banani area of Dhaka on the night of April 17, 2012. He was later allegedly taken to a security agency facility. It is also claimed that he may have been killed and thrown into the Dhaleshwari River sometime between April 17 and 20. However, there is no official confirmation of this information yet.
Investigation and legal process
Sheikh Mamun Khaled is being interrogated on multiple occasions. Investigating officers said that based on the information provided by him, the role of various individuals and organizations involved is being investigated. It is reported that some people have already been kept under surveillance and some officials have been interrogated.
More than a decade has passed since Ilyas Ali’s disappearance. The question of whether he is alive or dead has not been answered reliably. His family, especially his wife Tahsina Rushdi Luna, have repeatedly asked the state for a clear explanation on the matter.
According to analysts, this incident is one of the most talked about disappearances in Bangladesh’s recent political history, which is still unsolved. Even if new information comes to light, it is difficult to reach a final conclusion until its authenticity is confirmed.